Jomolhari Trek Bhutan – 11 Days

Flight to Bhutan offers the most spectacular view of the Himalayan range which includes the sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks as our flight descends to Paro. Once in Paro, we will be greeted by a representative from Extollo Adventures and take us to our hotel. As soon as we are ready, our representative will pick us up for some sightseeing. First up is Rinpung Dzong, which was built in 1646 and now houses the District Monastic Body and government administrative offices of Paro Dzongkhag. Today we also visit the oldest temple of Bhutan, Kichu Lhakhang and Drugyal Dzong, which was built in 1646 to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders during the 1600’s. Overnight in Tashi Namgay Resort.

Today we hike for about 2 hours to Taktsang monastery which is commonly known as Tiger’s Nest. Standing tall at 10,433 feet, the monastery is precariously perched on a cliff face which gives it a surreal look. History has it that Guru Rinpoche (spiritual master) flew on the back of a tigress to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands and served as the divine resting place of the Guru. Surrounded by breathtaking panoramas, we can feel peace and tranquility surrounding us as we ascend the glorious monastery. We will have our lunch in Cafeteria Restaurant, located about halfway up the mountain and then descend down to the valley floor after having explored the monastery. We then drive back to Paro. Overnight in Paro.

We begin our trek today from Drugyal Dzong at 8,464 ft with a downhill walk on a wide trail. We then climb gently through well-maintained rice terraces and fields of millet. The route later enters an area of apple orchards and forests. Soon the valley widens and we reach the army post of Gunitsawa at 9,219 ft. This is the last stop before Tibet. At 9,416 ft, just beyond Shana Zampa, there are several good camping places in meadows surrounded by trees. Overnight in a Camp at an altitude of 9,350 ft.

The trail follows Pa Chhu (Paro River), ascending and descending through pine, oak and spruce forests. Hot lunch will be served after crossing a bridge towards the left side of the river. After lunch, we follow the river, climb up through rhododendron forests and finally cross another bridge and reach our campsite at an altitude of 12,303 ft. Overnight in a camp/tent.

Our path ascends for a while until the army camp. Then, it follows the river above the tree line where we get to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Hot lunch will be served at a yak herder's camp. A short walk into the valley will take us to the camp at Jangothang at an altitude of 13,254 ft. From here, the views of Mt. Jomolhari and Jichu Drake are superb. Overnight in a Camp/tent.

Today, we rest and acclimatize for next day's trek. After breakfast, we take a 4-hour trip to the northern side of our camp from where we get a beautiful view of the Jichu Drake Peak. We have a picnic lunch on the way. This trip will help us with acclimatization and if we are lucky we may even encounter grazing yaks and blue sheep which makes this trip all the more amazing. Overnight in Camp/tent.

The trail follows a stream for half an hour and crosses the bridge to the right. We ascend a ridge and acquire breathtaking views of Jomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tshering Gang from the top. Then we walk towards the valley, almost flat for a while, until the climb to the Ngye La pass (15,970ft). After crossing the pass, it is a gradual descent to the Lingshi camp. Along the way, we enjoy a panoramic view of the peaks and Lingshi Dzong. Camp at an altitude of 13,123 ft. Overnight in a Camp/Tent.

The Laya Gasa route leaves the Jomolhari trek here. Instead, the route climbs towards a small white Chorten on a ridge above the camp, then turns south up the deep Mo Chhu valley. The trail stays on the west side of the largely treeless valley, climbing a short distance above Mo Chhu steadily. It then crosses the river and climbs steeply for two hours to Yeli La pass (15,810ft). From the pass, we see Jomolhari, Gangchen Ta, Tshering Gang and Masang Gang. We then descend alongside a stream to a shelter, and then further downstream to camp at Shodu (13,451 ft). Overnight in Camp/tent.

Our trail follows the Thimphu River, descending through rhododendron, juniper, and other alpine forests. The view of the cliff facing rocks and waterfalls is stunning. Hot lunches will be served by the riverside. After lunch, we continue our walk as the trail gradually ascends to the ruins of Barshong Dzong. Finally, we end today’s walk by camping at an altitude of 11,810 ft. Overnight in Camp/tent.

The trail descends gently through dense rhododendron, birch and conifer forests. We then descend on a steep trail to meet Thimphu Chhu River. Our trail stays on the left side of the river, climbing over ridges and descending to side streams. We then cross a steep cliff to Dolam Kencho, a camp located beautifully amidst pasturelands at an altitude of 11,810 ft After continuing in the southern direction, we reach Dodena and to Thimpu. In the evening, we may stroll through the streets of the capital city, explore the market and get acquainted with the local lifestyle. Overnight in Thimphu.

Our journey in the land of Thunder Dragon concludes today as we bid farewell to this exquisite kingdom. We grab our breakfast early in the morning and leave for Paro airport which will take us around 1 hour. Druk Air usually departs in the early morning to avoid adverse weather conditions. Hence, we will be taken to the airport first thing in the morning for final departure.